Guide to finding vintage clothing

So many of the pieces in my wardrobe are vintage pieces that I've picked up from op shops and flea markets. I have always been attracted to more vintage feeling things, be it furniture, clothing or home decor, they are so timeless yet blend so well with modern pieces. I tend to buy my basics and any new seasons trends that I feel like following from chain stores and all my statement pieces are vintage finds.

There are some important points to keep in mind when hunting out your perfect vintage piece

1. Look for damage. These pieces are old so we can expect to see some sort of damage, whether it's stains, holes, missing buttons, check the garment from top to bottom. If there is some damage ask yourself if it impacts how you feel about the piece and is it and easy fix? Too many times I have fallen in love with something only to get it home and find half the beading missing or a giant unmovable stain.
2. Check zips. Along the same lines as my first point but having a working zip is another thing to be looking for. Generally zips are easy to replace so not a huge issue to me if a zip is broken but it means you cant wear your piece straight away.
3. Does it  go with the rest of your wardrobe. There are some pieces that you will only want to wear on their own because they are are heavily patterned or are truly a statement piece however you still need to think about what the rest of your wardrobe consists of. Is it solely statement pieces or do you a few basics that would take that vintage dress from summer to winter easily?
4. Fit. Yes clothes can be tailored but checking the fit of your item before you purchase is so important. You can shorten hems and take in waistlines but you can't fit those pieces that just don't fit right. If the item has passed on all the above points then try it on and really pay attention to how it makes you feel. I have bought pieces home because I really loved the idea of them but they are too high necked or cling in all the wrong places and I can't bring myself to wear them because they don't make me feel good.
   
   
   

I hope these points help you in the search for the perfect vintage pieces to add to your collection.